Juneathon Day 26 – Running Mistakes

Today’s a rest day as per NTC but really, I’ve been resting for too long. Juneathon Day 26 activities are completed. Simple 3 KM run that was going to be a light trot but turned into a serious run. I ran the first km, walked a minute, ran 900m, walked a minute, and ran the final 900m. This doesn’t sound like a hard run but the time it took me to complete this was faster than my average and faster than my recent regular “fast” pace. I’m pretty proud of the run. Yes, I may have stopped to walk but the brisk walking to have water helped reduce cough attacks (only had 2 during the run) and I swear it sped me up for the remaining KM ahead. All in all, I have jogged, logged, and blogged for today, no excuses. 🙂

I started Juneathon with a how to run feature but I haven’t focussed on how NOT to run. This is to focus on items and things you do NOT want to do or things that you may be doing too much that could be impairing your growth and enjoyment in running.

rundmach’sTop 5 Mistakes of Running for Beginners:

1. Too Much – Too Soon: Which also includes running too fast at the start. Don’t push yourself to distances your body isn’t ready for and don’t go out too fast; pace yourself. Start off slow and steady with shorter distances. Aim to start with walk run intervals. I’m still only at a little under 12 km as my longest distance ever ran… I’ve been at it for 2 years and I read blogs where beginner runners run a marathon after 9 months. That’s amazing and inspirational, but that’s not for me and that might not be for you. Maybe it will be one day but don’t rush into it!

2. Running in the Wrong Shoes: This is important at for everyone. Don’t just pick shoes that you think are pretty because I’m a Nike fan and have always wanted to be able to run Nike shoes but they just don’t work for my feet. They don’t support the arch I have, my heels, or the width of my feet. Make sure you’re getting fitted properly by someone who cares and not someone who’s just trying to make a sale. In this case, you also don’t want to be running in some random sneakers. I saw someone running in some Chuck Taylors once (super flat trendy shoe, not made for running) and all I could think of, poor feet… But I also want to try to become a barefoot runner so… whatever it is you need, make sure you’re treating your feet well, they absorb the impact of your body and support how the rest of your body will feel during and after the run.

3. Not Hydrating: Remember you need to fuel properly and drink plenty of water 24 hours prior to your run, during, and after. Water helps with performance, breathing, and restoring your muscles. Your standards 8 ounces of water a day is sufficient but maybe a little more would be nice, if it’s too much, you’ll just pee it out.

4. Listening to Everyone: This includes me… Everyone thinks they’re an expert and really, you just need to listen to yourself and your body. Use your common sense and make sure you’re doing your research. Choose your resources wisely and think thoroughly before you take any advice too seriously.

5. Comparing too Much: Whether you are comparing stats or looking at other runners, don’t do it too early. The most important thing about running is the fact that you’re just getting out there and going.

Hope this helps you keep a level head and be aware of what you’re getting yourself into/reading.
What you should do is just HAVE FUN! 🙂